Located on one of Copenhagen’s most prestigious streets and surrounded by a multitude of shops and restaurants, this Indre Bay historic apartment is designed for those who want to experience European glamour at its best. Step inside the private entrance to discover high ceilings, picture moldings, a glistening crystal chandelier, and a dining room that can host a 10-person dinner party. Although this feels like a step back in time, don’t worry—the historic design doesn’t extend to the amenities. High-end appliances, spa-like bathrooms, large closets, and luxurious bedding offers the modern comforts all travelers desire. From $1,382 per night.BOOK NOWHistoric Home in Indre BayPerks: Fireplaces, washer, crib and pack-and-playLive like a lord or lady, at least temporarily, in this 1757 home that was built for nobility and aristocrats. Connected to the Yellow Palace (yes, you read that right, palace), the apartment, which showcases intricate moldings and arched oversize windows, has served as a home to two kings. Fittingly, walls and furnishings in jewel tones can be found throughout. It’s an easy walk to the city center, but a fireplace, oversize velvet furniture, and king-size beds (no pun intended) dressed in luxury linens will make it difficult to leave your own personal castle. From $918 per night.BOOK NOWLuxurious and Cozy Apartment in FrederiksbergPerks: Fireplace, balcony, pets allowedWith its picture moldings, built-ins throughout, and fireplace, this Frederiksberg apartment oozes historic charm while its white color palette and sun-bathed interiors ensure that it still feels fresh. Start your day enjoying coffee on the bedroom’s charmingly furnished balcony. If at the end of the day, you’re too tired for dinner at one of the many surrounding restaurants, prepare a meal in the classic white kitchen and enjoy it in the elegant dining room. Then, retire to the spacious living room to sip a digestif on one of the large couches. From $1,336 per night.BOOK NOWMagical Fairytale PenthousePerks: Balcony, courtyard, washer and drierEmbrace your inner Rapunzel in this 1847 penthouse with expansive views of the city’s rooftops and iconic towers. Vintage-inspired wallpaper, a mix of antique and modern furnishings, and historic art set a layered, eclectic vibe. Bring home some local produce from the nearby farmer’s market to make a meal in the well-appointed kitchen, which opens to the living room. The only challenge you’ll face during your stay is deciding between the first bedroom with its original atelier windows or the second that hosts a comfy reading nook and access to the private balcony. From $713 per night.BOOK NOWSpacious Elegant Space in Indre BayPerks: Shared courtyard, washer and dryer,While this large, sun-filled flat was recently renovated, it still maintains the original charm from when it was built in 1700. A stylish, muted palette (all white save for soft-green kitchen cupboards) allows the ceiling moldings, natural floors, and built-in cabinetry and shelves to shine. Within walking distance to many fashionable shops, popular restaurants, and public transportation, as well as Tivoli Gardens, you won’t have to go far to enjoy the city. Want to socialize a bit closer to home? Head to the shared courtyard to meet a mix of local residents and other tourists. From $503 per night.BOOK NOWCozy Atmosphere in AmagerbroPerks: Quiet location, washer and dryer, shared backyardLooking for a flat that feels somehow minimalist and vibrant at the same time? This one is for you. Contemporary white kitchen cabinetry with butcher-block countertops balance sleek style with warm vibes while the exposed brick in the bedroom adds another hint of coziness. Textiles and artwork infuse the space with pops of color, making for a playful setting that both adults and kids will enjoy. For those who want easy access to the city center but prefer to avoid crowds, the location is a bike ride to the heart of the city, while the home itself is located in a quiet neighborhood for resting up. From $178 per night.BOOK NOW

Author and designer Ingrid Fetell Lee is no stranger to mood-boosting interiors. In 2009, she founded her lifestyle blog, The Aesthetics of Joy, to shed light on the relationship between our environment and our emotions, and to share ideas and inspiration for living a more joyful life through design. That endeavor led to a book on the same subject, as well as a popular TED Talk. (It's worth a watch!) Most recently, Ingrid teamed up with boutique wallpaper brand Hygge & West on a wallpaper collection that is sure to infuse any space with a more cheerful point of view. (Our personal favorites include the tomato-embellished heirloom print, the picnic stripe, as well as the graphic green-and-blue parasol motif.)In honor of Ingrid's newest endeavor, we asked the designer to share a few of her favorite ways to happy up a home. Wallpaper Your ClosetMichael PartenioA closet-turned-home office features a unexpected hit of wallcovering."A splash of wallpaper inside a closet turns an everyday moment—grabbing a coat or putting away laundry—into a small delight," says Ingrid. "Our brains are wired to notice novelty, and when something is partially hidden, like a bold pattern behind a door, it gives us the chance to rediscover it again and again." Ingrid suggests that you can create similar moments of delight by painting the inside of a cabinet a vibrant hue, adding a whimsical hook to your bathroom, or lining drawers with a cheerful print. "These elements of surprise break the monotony, keeping your environment feeling fresh," she says.Add Some CurvesMatthew KisidayA round mirror—and pretty floral wallcovering—in a powder room designed by Kendall Rabun Interiors. "Round forms—circles, spheres, arches—are more than a design preference. They’re tied to our emotional response system," says Ingrid. "Neuroscientific studies have shown that sharp angles can activate the amygdala, a part of the brain associated with fear and anxiety, while curved forms set us at ease." To soften your space, Ingrid suggests trying a circular mirror, a round coffee table, or patterns with curved shapes. "These soft forms subtly signal playfulness, making a room feel more relaxed and joyful," she says.Paint Your Door Edges (Or Stair Risers)Annie SchlechterIn the home of Brent Ridge and Josh Kilmer-Purcell, a painted stairwell brings playful energy to a more formal foyer You don’t need a lot of color to make a big impact in your space. "Just a small hit of a bright, saturated hue—like painting the edge of a door in coral or lemon yellow—can instantly lift the mood of a room," says Ingrid. "Color affects us in powerful, often subconscious ways. Research shows that people working in more colorful environments feel more alert, confident, and joyful than those in dull, neutral spaces." Ingrid also notes that the brighter the color, the less you need. "Start small by adding it in unexpected places: the back of a bookshelf, the trim of a window, or a stair riser," she says.Bring the Outside InDavid HillegasIn a Lowcountry bedroom designed by Heather Chadduck, freshly clipped branches bring the outdoors in.Natural elements have a direct connection to our well-being. "Biophilic design—a term that references our innate love of nature—has been shown to reduce stress and increase positive emotions," says Ingrid. "Plants are an ideal way to do this, but even if you don’t have a green thumb, patterns with nature motifs like vines, leaves, and flowers can bring a sense of lushness and vitality to a space. Whether it’s a lush wallpaper, a botanical print, or a natural fiber rug, these touches help create a calming, grounded feeling that reconnects us with the natural world."Embrace Repeating PatternsCourtesy of Hygge and WestA stripe repeat—like this one from Ingrid’s new collection with Hygge & West—provides comfort in its predictability.There’s something inherently joyful about repetition. "Whether it’s stripes, polka dots, scallops, or another shape, repeated motifs create rhythm and order," says Ingrid. "Psychologists believe our brains find comfort in this kind of visual predictability — it’s both soothing and energizing."Engage All of the SensesSTACY ZARIN GOLDBERGCandles? Check. Blanket? Check. Branches? Check. This breakfast room by Winsome Interior Design hits all the right notes. (Also: That blue floor!)Joy isn’t just something we see. It’s something we feel, hear, and even smell. "Soft textures, cozy materials, the scent of citrus or pine, the sound of a crackling candle or birdsong outside: all of these layer into a sensory experience that deepens our emotional connection to a place," says Ingrid. "A joyful home doesn’t just look good. It feels alive."Related StoriesRachel Hardage BarrettRachel Hardage Barrett has written for and edited lifestyle publications for more than 20 years. As the editor-in-chief of Country Living, she has covered all things related to country life—including design, gardening, food, travel, antiques, crafts, and country pop culture—for more than a decade. Before Country Living, Rachel spent several years at Southern Living, where she served as Executive Editor covering travel, food, style, and features. Before Southern Living, Rachel was the Special Projects Director of Real Simple, where she wrote and oversaw books and special issues about food, travel, weddings, organizing, and parenting in addition to working on international editions and licensed products. Before working at lifestyle brands, Rachel started her magazine career at Glamour, where she wrote and edited relationship articles, celebrity interviews, as well as fashion and features content. When she’s not working on the magazine, she can likely be found poking around an antiques shop, perusing country real estate listings, or dreaming of opening a general store.

“What. Is. THAT?” At Remedy HQ, me and two other writers getting a first hands-on with the forthcoming FBC: Firebreak have hit a problem. Namely, a strange, ever-changing black-grey mass, aimlessly and unnervingly stuttering around the Quarry we’re currently exploring. We have no idea what it is until we get close enough to recognize it—an Astral Spike from Firebreak’s ‘prequel,’ Control. But by then, it’s too late. Our screams that soon follow confirm it’s still just as deadly as ever. It’s not the only surprise I encountered in my extensive playthrough of the already slick and utterly engaging first-person squad-based shooter, launching June 17 on PlayStation 5. Here’s what I discovered from a fair few rounds of firefighting a paranatural invasion in the Oldest House. Live as a team or die alone repeatedly The focus on creating a team of three for the game’s player vs. environment (PvE) set-up is to hone in on the three classes of the game, known as Crisis Kits. I plumped for the Jump Kit, which specializes in crowd control and power management, while my two teammates went for the Fix Kit (a repair and tech expert) and Splash Kit (a water dealer and status support for other players). These Kits are designed to complement and collaborate in tasks and attacks, so trying to be a maverick only leads to death, likely yours. Communication is absolutely essential – especially as it’s easy to get caught in friendly fire – and taking full advantage of the Kits’ tools is the only way to survive the endless supply of rampaging hordes. And given that you possess a limited number of respawns between your team, reviving each other on the field is the best way to stay in the game, not always easy when dozens of Hiss beasties surround you. Crafting the perfect loadout In addition to the expected rifles, shotguns, and pistols, each Kit consists of three types of equipment: a tool, augment, and item. My Jump Kit’s initial loadout features an Electro-Kinetic Charge Impactor tool for shocking enemies, powering up generators, and even jumping long distances, and a BOOMbox item that distracts enemies once it’s charged. The systemic subtleties of each Kit’s equipment is where the teamwork comes into play. My Splash Kit comrade-in-arms uses his Crank-Operated Fluidic Ejector tool to wet the beasts, which maximizes my electrocution attack on them. At the same time, our Fix Kit buddy utilizes his Swivel Turret item that automatically tracks and unleashes a volley of rounds at any stragglers. Like the best co-op shooters, FBC: Firebreak encourages you to improvise under increasingly difficult odds, while not being afraid of the hilarity that comes with the chaos. There’s a mischievous glee from the Remedy staff when they unlock our Kits’ augments, and I soon see why. Once charged, my augment – named the AI19 Garden Gnome – fired out an unassuming gnome that unleashed a massive electrical storm that was far too close to my entire team and got us all electrocuted. My bad. Playing with piggy banks and paper Of course, it’s not all just fighting (or accidentally maiming your teammates) with things like the enemy igniting AI44 Teapot or the incredibly significant damage of the ‘break on contact but reforming’ AI16 Piggy Bank. FBC’s director and Control’s protagonist, Jesse Faden, has given you specific tasks to ensure the invasion of Hiss is contained. In this build of the game, I have access to three of the five Jobs that will be present at launch. Hot Fix challenges you to repair a number of heat fans and ultimately reseal the Maintenance Sector’s paranatural Furnace. Paper Chase requires the destruction of a set number of sticky notes, as well as surviving the shuffling sticky note monsters. Ground Control drops you into Black Rock Quarry to kill Astral Leeches in order to uncover irradiated pearls that need to be collected into a shuttle and launched into orbit. Each well-designed level offers opportunities to use the Kits’ different abilities, such as the Fix Kit’s wrench providing quick repairs to broken fans that lets you sidestep the button matching sub-game other Kits might need to perform, or the Splash Kit’s Humidifier spraying healing water to wash off radiation. But the Jobs also bring their fair share of downright terrifying moments, such as the confrontation with the literally giant sticky note boss monster, Sticky Ricky, which requires you to power up surrounding generators before you can hurt it. Or the aforementioned nightmare-inducing Astral Spikes that haunt the Quarry. ​​ Customization and corruption keep you guessing With its satisfying gunplay and smooth controls that feel at home on the DualSense wireless controller, there’s a lot to look forward to with FBC: Firebreak. Plenty of extra tantalizing elements will be expanded for launch, too, such as the many unlockable customizable gears and cosmetics for weapons, equipment, armor, or level unlock perks, such as the chance for electrified bullets or the ability to shake off radiation or fire by jumping up and down. There’s even a Corruption Level modifier that introduces Corrupted Items that cause additional hazards, such as low gravity or—the horrifying one I encountered, which led to many deaths—super fast enemies. It’s all designed to make the most of movement and character status-based systems, creating unpredictable results that set up FBC: Firebreak to be a compelling and ever-evolving experience. The doors to the Oldest House reopen when FBC: Firebreak shoots onto PS5 on June 17, with day one availability for PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium members as part of PlayStation Plus Game Catalog. And for anyone who still has any doubts, don’t worry – Remedy has this all under Control.

North Boulder Library / WORKacSave this picture!© Bruce DamonteLibrary•Boulder, United States Architects: WORKac Area Area of this architecture project Area:  12800 ft² Year Completion year of this architecture project Year:  2024 Photographs Photographs:Bruce Damonte Manufacturers Brands with products used in this architecture project Manufacturers:  ELEVATE, Holcim, Alucobond, American Hydrotech, Daltile, Forbo, Guardian Glass , InCord, Kawneer, Montel, Overhead Door Corp., Swing Set Mall, Wilsonart More SpecsLess Specs Save this picture! Text description provided by the architects. The Boulder Public Library issued an open Request for Proposal (RFP) in 2018 for a new branch library in North Boulder, a project the community had anticipated for over two decades. The RFP called for an "iconic" building, which many competitors interpreted as a visually striking design. However, WORKac www.work.ac - the architecture firm based in New York City and led by Amale Andraos and Dan Wood - proposed a vision where the library's iconic status would stem from its sustainability and its positive impact on the community and environment.Save this picture!Save this picture!Save this picture!This innovative approach resonated with the library. The building stands out as an original project rooted in WORKac's significant past experiences. Andraos and Wood have always been deeply committed to issues in education, a dedication that culminated in Andraos' role as Dean of the Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation (GSAPP) at Columbia University, where Dan Wood is an Associate Adjunct Professor. At the time this project was commissioned, their Kew Gardens Hills Library in Queens, NY had just recently opened, a source of pride for its community, and their joyful Miami Museum Garage - which inventively transforms the simple and often frustrating act of parking a car into an unexpected opportunity for social interaction - had reached wide international resonance.Save this picture!Save this picture!Rooted in community engagement - The North Boulder Library is situated within a diverse neighborhood that blends new developments for young professionals, art studios, galleries, and two manufactured home communities that include Boulder's largest Spanish-speaking population. The chosen site is a triangular plot bordered by Broadway to the west and Three Mile Creek to the south, with stunning views to the Boulder Flatirons. WORKac's approach to the project was deeply rooted in community engagement.Save this picture!Save this picture!WORKac worked for almost eight years on the project, including a three-year Community Engagement and Site Planning process, which entailed more than twenty public presentations of the design during different phases to community groups, politicians, and stakeholders. More than 3,000 people attended the opening ceremony on June 29, 2024. "Today and every day we endeavor to render architecture more human, to turn the pragmatic fantastic, and to reclaim the 'best' in 'best practice' away from the technocratic and towards the creative. We approach every project, regardless of scale, program, type or context with the same passion, drawing resolute realism together with polemical optimism," say Amale Andraos and Dan Wood.Save this picture!Site, Program and Architecture - Boulder's unique geographical position at the intersection of the Rocky Mountains and the Great Plains has historically shaped its rugged architectural vernacular. The North Boulder Library design celebrates this context, acknowledging the area's complex relationship with the natural environment. Through its connections with the urban surroundings, the library not only reflects its environment but also enhances its visual and functional relationship with the local community.Save this picture!The design of the North Boulder Library was directly informed by the community's input, leading to the inclusion of key programs such as Boulder Reads, which supports literacy development for children and adults, and a "Maker Kitchen," which evolved from the community's desire for a maker space together with ideas for a community garden and kitchen area. "Our greatest delight is for others to feel a sense of joy, of belonging, and of possibilities for the future," state the architects.Save this picture!The building negotiates the triangular site that includes a seasonal creek running diagonally through it with a building that respects the scale of its residential neighbors to the north while opening up to views of the Flatiron Mountains and Rocky Mountain foothills to the south and west. The library is designed with the major community spaces on the second floor. The lower northern side integrates a shallow, fully- accessible ramp that allows these second-floor community and ESL classrooms to open at night when the library is closed, reinforcing the library's role as a community hub. This ramp is enhanced by a public art installation by Montreal-based Daily tous les jours that plays music as users ascend or descend. Despite its modest size, the building has four entrances and a variety of public spaces that seamlessly extend outdoors, connecting with both the residential neighborhood to the north and the Fourmile Canyon Creek park to the south.The building's design is both intriguing and unexpected. Its irregular geometry, a convergence of triangular forms, mirrors and influences the internal layout. This interplay of shapes creates a series of surprising spatial experiences.Save this picture!Save this picture!The main public floor is divided into a large reading room for adult patrons and a children's area with a private nook for story-reading and windows onto a slide that can be accessed through a rope climbing structure, allowing kids to climb up through the building and slide down into the library's new playground. Other key areas on the ground floor include the Maker Kitchen, which connects to an edible garden and playground, and large windows that offer breathtaking views of the mountains. The interior design incorporates custom elements like a wallpaper by graphic designer Andrew Freeman, principal at afreeman, featuring historical photos from Boulder's archives, celebrating the region's indigenous heritage. The building's exposed ceiling structure adds to the space's acoustic performance and aesthetic richness.Save this picture!WORKac's architecture is both unpretentious and inspiring. It embodies a sense of freedom that invites people to engage with the space and take ownership of it. This approach reflects a profound commitment to civic responsibility. Sustainability is a central focus of the project, with initial plans aiming for net-zero energy. Although some features were scaled back due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent economic challenges, Boulder's stringent sustainability regulations ensured that the library maintained its high green building standards. A rooftop solar array supplies a significant portion of the building's energy, while the site includes a rainwater garden planted with native, butterfly-attracting flowers and shrubs to protect the seasonal creek from runoff.Save this picture!A testament to the power of thoughtful design - The North Boulder Library is a testament to the power of thoughtful, community-driven design. Despite a modest budget, WORKac has created a building that is both beautiful and functional, serving as a model for equitable public architecture. Funded entirely by the City of Boulder, the library stands as a beacon of progressive values, sustainability, and community engagement, reflecting the spirit of the city it serves. WORKac is the recipient of the 2023 Arts and Letters Award in Architecture, a prestigious honor given by the American Academy of Arts and Letters to recognize exceptional American architects whose work embodies artistic excellence and has made a significant impact on the field of architecture. They are currently working on the Beirut Art Museum in Lebanon and projects at Vassar College, including a renovation to its main library.Save this picture! Project gallerySee allShow less Project locationAddress:Boulder, United StatesLocation to be used only as a reference. It could indicate city/country but not exact address.About this officeWORKacOffice••• MaterialSteelMaterials and TagsPublished on May 14, 2025Cite: "North Boulder Library / WORKac" 14 May 2025. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1030123/north-boulder-library-workac&gt ISSN 0719-8884Save世界上最受欢迎的建筑网站现已推出你的母语版本!想浏览ArchDaily中国吗?是否 You've started following your first account!Did you know?You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.Go to my stream

Source: Wright & Wright ArchitectsProposed scheme on Oxford High Street Wright & Wright Architects have secured planning permission for a major retrofit scheme for All Souls College, Oxford. The project is intended to create new academic and public-facing spaces within a group of conjoined historic buildings on Oxford’s High Street, expanding the college’s presence beyond its historic quadrangles. The scheme is intended to restore original architectural features across a series of existing buildings and shoprfronts, while introducing new facilities across multiple floors. The upper levels will include three seminar rooms, a lecture theatre with capacity for 100 people, fellows’ studies, staff offices and a rooftop garden. Historic elements such as 17th-century stone walls, ancient roof timbers and 18th-century ceilings are to be retained and revealed as part of the works. Clare Wright, founding partner at Wright & Wright, said: “It has been a privilege to help realise the College’s ambition to remodel an extraordinary set of historic buildings on an important site on Oxford’s High Street. In an era when city centres are languishing, this pioneering project can help preserve the soul of Oxford.” David Renton, estates bursar at All Souls College, said: “Our ambition is to create a place of learning that connects directly with the life of the city, while honouring the historic complexity of the site. We are excited to work with Wright & Wright to bring this vision to life.” Roof gardenSource: Wright & Wright Architects Front elevationSource: Wright & Wright Architects Proposed sectionSource: Wright & Wright Architects Front elevationSource: Wright & Wright Architects Study roomSource: Wright & Wright Architects 1/5 show caption The ground floor proposals include replacing existing shopfronts with bespoke joinery designed to reflect the proportions of earlier facades. The scheme also seeks to enhance the covered passageway linking the High Street to the Covered Market with improved signage, lighting and finishes. The project, comprising three conjoined structures, is described by the architects as a low-energy, deep retrofit. The design aims to reduce carbon emissions while safeguarding the building’s historic fabric. Later modern interventions are to be stripped out in order to improve environmental performance and expose earlier features. Founded in 1438, All Souls is one of the University of Oxford’s oldest and most academically distinctive colleges, known for its postgraduate-only focus on research and absence of undergraduates. Wright & Wright’s wider body of work includes projects for the British Museum, Lambeth Palace Library, the British Academy and several other Oxford colleges. A construction timeline has not yet been confirmed. Project team Architect: Wright & Wright Architects Structural & Civil Engineer: engineersHRW M&E, Sustainability Engineer: Max Fordham Acoustic Engineer: Max Fordham Heritage Consultant: Donald Insall Associates Project Manager: Ridge and Partners Cost Consultant: Gardiner & Theobald Property Management: Cluttons Planning Consultant: Carter Jonas Fire Consultant: OFR Consultants Landscape Consultant: Harris Bugg AV Consultant: Hewshott Retail Consultant: KLM Real Estate Accessibility Consultant: Mima Group Ltd Archaeological Consultant: Oxford Archaeology Building Regulations PD: Ridge and Partners Principal Designer Advisor: Stroma Visual Impact Assessment: Neaves Urbanism

If whiling away your day in the garden (preferably while wearing something flowy) or decorating exclusively with brown furniture is your idea of a good time, then I’ve got some news for you: it’s time to embrace your inner grandma. Yes, 2025 is the year of the grandma, and the grandma-chic look has never been, well, chicer. Not only is it wildly affordable to decorate like your grandma, but it’s also an easy way to ensure your home exudes timeless warmth. Below, I share what the grandma chic aesthetic actually is and the tips of a few expert thrifters about how you can bring the look home on a budget.Related StoriesWhat Is the Grandma-Chic Aesthetic? ALUN CALLENDERTimeless rose motifs add grandma-approved cottage charm to any room.Somewhere between grandmillennial, cottagecore, and a hefty appreciation for antiques sits the grandma-chic aesthetic. “It’s really just about comfort and familiarity,” says Margo Roth, founder of House of Margo. Overstuffed cushions, timeless textiles, classic wood furniture, and a sense of come-as-you-are ease are foundations to the aesthetic. Look for faded floral motifs, painterly stripes, woven textures, and other twee touches to bring the look home. Just be sure to approach the aesthetic with authenticity. “A grandmother’s home has been slowly curated and decorated over decades,” says expert thrifter Riley Wigington. “You can’t go buy a bunch of floral prints from one store and call it ‘grandma-chic.’ You need to infuse your own personality into your selections and ensure a variety of patterns, textures, and colors in your decor.”Grandma-Chic Pieces to Look for at Thrift Stores While the grandma aesthetic is as wide ranging as it is cozy, there are a few key elements that exemplify the happily homespun look. Below, Riley and Margo share their must-haves to look for on your next trip out thrifting: BasketsCARLOS GARCIAWoven baskets of all shapes and sizes stand at the ready in this home from British designer Carlos Garcia.Both Riley and Margo say wicker baskets are the ultimate must-have Grandma-chic item. “I firmly believe you can never have too many,” says Margo. They offer instant texture and are often found at local thrift stores for under $10. “Look for varying shapes and sizes,” says Riley. “Bonus points if they can hold something practical, like blankets or your latest knitting project.” Margo also loves using one in her garden as a stylish vegetable trug. “They are the perfect example of functional beauty,” she says. Related StoryPieced Quilts Buff Strickland for Country LivingIn designer Claire Zinnecker’s Texas farmhouse, an antique wedding ring quilt adds a comforting layer of nostalgia to her guest bedroom.Blankets and throws are a given in any grandma-adjacent space as they encourage the cozy, laze-about vibe associated with grandma’s house. Quilts of all kinds are encouraged, especially pieced quilts, which are prized for their handcrafted charm. Look for quilts in good condition with even, tight stitching to ensure their longevity. When cleaning older textiles, use gentle detergents and hang them to dry. You can also spritz them with a 1:1 mix of water and vodka to remove any lingering smells. Patterned Plates Courtesy of Deborah ArendsFruit- and flower-themed dinnerware adds homespun charm to any plate wall.Calling all majolica and Burleigh Pottery fans: This is your permission to thrift even more patterned and transferware plates. “Hang them on your wall for a true grandma-chic look,” says Riley. Collected plate walls, which have long been a staple of formal dining rooms and cottage kitchens alike, offer a sense of lived-in flair at a relatively low price point. Stick to one pattern or color palette, or mix shapes, styles, and colors for a happily hodgepodge look. Related StoryDark Wood Furniture COURTESY OF TIM SALISBURY/ANNA SPIRO DESIGNThis antique mahogany dresser doubles as a bedside table in this pattern-filled room by Anna Spiro.Dark wood furniture—think mahogany or walnut—was once the standard. While it may have fallen out of fashion in the last 30 years, its timeless appeal remains, and it has experienced a slow revival in recent years. Choose utility pieces with personality, such as a hutch or china cabinet, for the ultimate statement. Related StoryPyrex Becky Luigart-Stayner for Country LivingPatterned Pyrex is prized amongst in-the-know collectors and can fetch a pretty penny on the market.There’s a pretty good chance that your grandmother exclusively used Pyrex to store her leftovers. The colorful dishware’s inherent nostalgia and cheerful disposition make it one of the most sought-after antiques on the market these days. Stay on the hunt long enough and you might just find yourself invited to an exclusive Pyrex swap. (Expert collectors recommend checking Facebook for Pyrex swap groups in your area.) Related Story Cozy Armchairs David A. Land for Country LivingNew upholstered furniture is notoriously expensive, making thrifting a much more affordable way to achieve the same look. While thrifting upholstery may conjure up images (read: nightmares) of bedbugs or other unseemly tag-alongs, it doesn’t have to. “If the item is clean or can be cleaned, has a slipcover, or is practically unused, go for it,” says Margo. Like caring for vintage quilts, cleaning upholstery is easier than it seems. Sprinkle baking soda over the piece and vacuum it off, or simply spray it with the same 1:1 mixture of water and vodka mentioned above. Riley suggests looking for unexpected fabric patterns in either stripes or florals to infuse your space with a little personality. And, if you find a piece with good bones, but less than “chic” fabric, it may still be worth buying and having reupholstered (or tackling a DIY reupholstering project). For a chance at high-end designer fabrics, skip the thrift store and check out a local estate sale for a well-loved arm chair in need of a second life. Related StoriesGardening Tools Kate Sears for Country LivingFrom lawn sprinklers to watering cans, vintage gardening tools add easy patina to any space.Grandma hobbies, also known as the useful pastoral pursuits that were once integral to everyday living, are experiencing a resurgence, with gardening taking center stage. Whether they’re useful pieces salvaged from Grandma’s potting shed or totally decorative finds that add patina to a bloom room or entryway, vintage gardening tools are full of charm and an affordable way to infuse any space with rustic texture. Related StoriesAnna LoganSenior Homes & Style EditorAnna Logan is the Senior Homes & Style Editor at Country Living, where she has been covering all things home design, including sharing exclusive looks at beautifully designed country kitchens, producing home features, writing everything from timely trend reports on the latest viral aesthetic to expert-driven explainers on must-read topics, and rounding up pretty much everything you’ve ever wanted to know about paint, since 2021. Anna has spent the last seven years covering every aspect of the design industry, previously having written for Traditional Home, One Kings Lane, House Beautiful, and Frederic. She holds a degree in journalism from the University of Georgia. When she’s not working, Anna can either be found digging around her flower garden or through the dusty shelves of an antique shop. Follow her adventures, or, more importantly, those of her three-year-old Maltese and official Country Living Pet Lab tester, Teddy, on Instagram.  

What happens when globally renowned artists trade studios for the clatter of machines, industrial dyes, and production lines? At the National Festival of Making in Blackburn, the result is a bold, joyful, and often surprising collision of creativity and craft. Now entering its ninth year, the festival's flagship commissioning programme, Art in Manufacturing, has announced three major new residencies for 2025. This year's headline artists are Matter at Hand, the new studio of Lewis Jones (co-founder of Turner Prize-winning Assemble), graphic artist and community powerhouse Morag Myerscough, and collage and sculpture specialist Liaqat Rasul. Each will embed themselves inside a leading UK manufacturer in Lancashire, creating ambitious site-specific works that celebrate the region's legacy of making while pushing the boundaries of material and form. Held annually in Blackburn town centre, the National Festival of Making draws tens of thousands each July for a free weekend of performances, exhibitions, talks, and installations. Its Art in Manufacturing strand has become a vital national model for artist-industry collaboration, pairing artists with factories to produce original work from heritage processes, specialist tools, and skilled workforces. Since its launch in 2016, over 30 artists have taken part across 20 manufacturers. Lewis Jones. Credit: Niamh Riordan "These commissions have always been about shining a light on the extraordinary creativity behind closed doors," says Elena Jackson, Co-Director and Curator of Art in Manufacturing. "It's an invitation for artists to experiment with materials and scale." This year, she adds, is no exception: "The artists are exploring clay, colour and collage - making new permanent work for Blackburn, turning industrial waste into finely crafted collage, and through an expanded two-year placement, developing in-depth research into sustainable making practices through new architectural and sculptural outcomes." Jones's project, through his new practice Matter at Hand, marks the start of an extended two-year residency inside Darwen Terracotta, one of the UK's leading manufacturers of architectural ceramics. Stationed on the factory floor, Jones is working on an interactive installation inside Blackburn Cathedral that reimagines clay as a sustainable material for the built environment. His installation will showcase new prototypes and sculptural experiments drawn from Darwen's heritage techniques, blending material innovation with architectural storytelling. Morag Myerscough. Credit: Marc Sethi For Morag Myerscough, the festival is a chance to inject her signature burst of positivity into Blackburn's urban fabric. Working with Crown Paints, she will create three new public-facing works, including a permanent mural, participatory workshops, and a garden-inspired installation that speaks to greening the high street. Her 'Colour Factory' takeover of Prism Contemporary promises to be one of the festival's most immersive and energetic moments. Meanwhile, Liaqat Rasul will bring his deeply personal, collage-based practice to Herbert Parkinson, part of the John Lewis Partnership. Through intimate workshops with John Lewis Partners, Rasul will explore themes of memory, identity and community. His final installation of sculptural mobiles will invite audiences to slow down and reflect, celebrating the human stories behind everyday manufacturing. Liaqat Arnold. Credit: Daniel Farmer Photography These three projects exemplify the festival's ethos: that art and making are not separate spheres but overlapping, collaborative forces. By embedding artists within factories, Art in Manufacturing collapses the distance between creative experimentation and real-world production and, in doing so, gives both artists and manufacturers a platform to innovate. A new publication, Radical Pairings, will launch at this year's festival. It documents the programme's history and legacy and features an essay by art critic Elizabeth Fullerton. The essay explores the unusual and inspiring nature of these residencies and the potential of creative partnerships to reframe both industry and art. Art in Manufacturing 2025 will debut at the National Festival of Making on 5–6 July, with installations continuing in venues across Blackburn thereafter. For those curious about what happens when artists roll up their sleeves and step into the engine rooms of British industry, it's not one to miss.

Lexi and Diego Newkirk had big plans for the sprawling piece of Texas land they bought in October 2023.The Newkirks dreamed of filling their 12.5-acre property with homes made of shipping containers, a more whimsical alternative to the traditional tiny home to appeal to adventurous travelers.When a dispute with a neighbor put a wrench in their plans, Lexi Newkirk, 25, and Diego Newkirk, 26, decided to just build one shipping container home for themselves instead, investing $100,000 in a space they plan to live in for the short term and rent out down the line. Lexi and Diego Newkirk bought land in Texas Hill Country in October 2023 with big plans to create a rental community. Lexi and Diego Newkirk. Lexi Newkirk Lexi Newkirk, a digital marketer, and Diego Newkirk, who works in home restoration, bought their 12.5 acres of land in October 2023 for $180,000. Their property is about an hour from Austin.Lexi Newkirk told Business Insider they envisioned creating a community of tiny homes people could rent for short-term stays on the property. Specifically, they pictured homes made out of shipping containers."People would much rather stay in a shipping container versus a traditional little tiny house out here," she said. "It would also rent for a lot more."The couple decided to make their dream a reality, buying two containers for their Texas property in November 2023. They opted for single-use containers, which are pricier because they have less wear and tear than containers used multiple times. They cost $5,500 each. The Newkirks had to pivot their plans after buying two containers. The couple on their land. Lexi Newkirk Just as the couple was about to break ground in November 2023, one of their neighbors approached them with concerns about their plans for a tiny-home community."We got a call from our neighbor basically asking us what the heck we're doing," Lexi Newkirk said, adding that the neighbor, who threatened to sue, took issue with the fact that the tiny homes would be visible from the road on the Newkirks' property, which sits at the front of the neighborhood.The couple didn't want to end up in a lawsuit, so they decided to shift their plans. They moved the two storage containers they had already purchased to the center of their property and decided to build one slightly larger home with them.They started construction in January 2024 and wrapped the interior in April 2025. During construction, they lived in an RV. Now that they've moved into the shipping container home, they plan to stay for a year or two before turning it into an Airbnb. They designed the home to have two floors, plus a basement. The shipping container home. Lexi Newkirk The couple thought two containers made the most sense for the house, as they would have additional space without building a separate roof.Together, the containers are 640 square feet, and the Newkirks also built a basement for the space."My husband and I did the layout together," Lexi Newkirk said of the design process. "We didn't hire anyone. We built it ourselves." Diego Newkirk built as much of the house as he could. Diego Newkirk building the home's basement. Lexi Newkirk "He did most of the construction himself," Lexi Newkirk told BI of her husband. "He did all the stacking of the containers, all the welding."Sometimes, he hired workers to help with larger projects, and the couple outsourced their plumbing and electrical work. Still, having him take on much of the work saved them money. The main floor features a spacious kitchen. The kitchen. Lexi Newkirk Lexi Newkirk said she and her husband love to cook, so they wanted to use more of their square footage for the kitchen, particularly after only having an RV-sized kitchen for a year.Details like butcher block countertops and a tiled backsplash, as well as the full-sized appliances, make the kitchen feel homey.The main floor also features a washer and dryer so the Newkirks can do laundry at home. The living area has ample natural light. The living area. Lexi Newkirk The Newkirks have a small living room that sits just off the kitchen.It has room for a small recliner couch and is full of light because it's next to a sliding glass door.Hardwood floors also add to the house's cozy feeling. The main floor has a half-bathroom. The home has a half bathroom. Lexi Newkirk The house runs on a water tank since it's in a remote area. The Newkirks get water delivered each month so they can use their toilets and other water-based appliances. A spiral staircase connects the two floors. The spiral staircase under construction. Lexi Newkirk The staircase leads to the center of the second story, adding a touch of whimsy to the space.There's a small desk and work area at the top of the stairs. A large primary bathroom was also a priority for the Newkirks. The primary bathroom. Lexi Newkirk Much like the kitchen, the Newkirks didn't want to feel cramped in their bathroom like they did in their RV.They decided to make their bathroom spacious, complete with a double vanity, walk-in shower, and a standing tub with a view of the property through a large window."The bathtub faces the sunset, so you can take a bath watching the sunset or shower," Lexi Newkirk said. A glass window covers nearly an entire wall in the couple's bedroom, allowing them to wake up with the sunrise each morning. The sunrise is visible from the bedroom. Lexi Newkirk "The way we engineered and built the house, the bedroom wakes up to the sunrise," Lexi Newkirk said. "And there's a huge window, so you can see all the stars and the moon."Although the bedroom stands out to her, she said she loves every inch of the home because she and her husband designed it."We kind of poured our hearts into it," she said.The couple is building out deck space to increase the home's square footage and allow them to enjoy outdoor living, but the house is complete otherwise. They estimate that they invested $100,000 in their dream shipping container home. The house took a year to build. Lexi Newkirk Building the house itself was expensive, but Lexi Newkirk said the remote nature of their property made the construction even more costly."For example, our electricity pole was 300 feet down, so we had to have a 300-foot trench," she said. Getting water delivered monthly is also costly, and their electricity costs are high.They hope to eventually use solar power on the property, but it will take some time to build it out.Although the build was pricey, the couple still saved money by living in an RV on their property during construction.Doing much of the work themselves and not taking out a loan for the project also helped, as they don't have a mortgage payment, though it did make construction take longer than it would have otherwise. The Newkirks plan to turn their property into a homestead with a barndominium. They have big plans for the home. Lexi Newkirk Now that the shipping container house is complete, the Newkirks are already starting to fulfill their next dreams for the property: making it into a homestead.They already have 20 chickens and plan to bring some cows onto the property in the next few years. They also want to build a garden and mostly live off their own property. They'll also build a barndominium for themselves in the not-too-distant future, moving into the bigger house so they can rent the shipping container home. For now, though, the tiny home is perfect for the couple."Everything in our house is super custom because of the size," Lexi Newkirk said. "The tiny house is only 640 square feet, but it has everything we need."

Zaha Hadid Architects Unveils Design of Oystra Mixed-Use Development in the United Arab EmiratesSave this picture!Oystra, Al Marjan, Render by MIR. Image Courtesy of ZHAOystra, designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, is a 128,000-square-metre seafront development located on Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates, that comprises 950 residential units, a comprehensive range of shopping, dining, and leisure amenities. Ras Al Khaimah, one of the UAE's fastest-growing emirates, is projected to see a 55% increase in its population by 2030, driving the need for an additional 45,000 homes. The emirate's tourism sector is also experiencing significant growth, with the number of visitors expected to rise to 3.5 million annually by 2030, up from 100,000 in 2013.Situated 25 minutes from Ras Al Khaimah Airport and 45 minutes from Dubai International Airport, Al Marjan Island extends 4.5 kilometres into the Arabian Sea and boasts 23 kilometres of coastline, including 7.8 kilometres of white sand beaches. As part of the development strategy, the island is being transformed into a prominent destination, incorporating parks, marinas, wellness centres, and entertainment hubs. Oystra's sculptural 20-storey waterfront towers are set within a 42,000-square-metre landscape of gardens, courtyards, swimming pools, and a beach club overlooking the bay. A rooftop restaurant and an infinity pool offer panoramic views of Al Marjan Island and the Arabian Sea, further connecting the development to its surrounding landscape. Save this picture! Oystra's sculptural design is inspired by the natural energies of the sea and the sky, responding to its environment with a sense of dynamism and openness. - Christos Passas, Director at Zaha Hadid Architects Related Article Zaha Hadid Architects Completes the Shenzhen Science & Technology Museum The design of Oystra responds to the island's natural environment, with over 75% of its apartments offering unobstructed views of the sea. The development's signature fluid geometries are expressed through expansive balconies and terraces, which mirror the undulating patterns left by waves on sand. These outdoor spaces extend the living areas of the apartments while also providing shading from the intense desert sun, enhancing the comfort of the interiors. The development is directly connected to Al Marjan Island's tree-lined coastal promenade, providing residents with pedestrian access to the island via a sheltered shoreline walkway that benefits from the cooling effects of prevailing north-westerly winds.Save this picture!Environmental strategies have been incorporated into the design, including environmental simulations to optimise site conditions, structure, and orientation. Digital mapping analysis has informed the development's external solar shading, and natural ventilation has been maximised. The project will also feature seawater-based cooling and an insulating cavity between the building envelope and façades exposed to direct sunlight. These measures aim to reduce the energy demand for cooling and improve interior comfort in Ras Al Khaimah's climate.Save this picture!In other developments across the UAE, the Sharjah Architecture Triennial has named Vyjayanthi Rao as the curator for its third edition, set to take place in 2026. In Dubai, Bjarke Ingels Group has been commissioned by A.R.M. Holding to lead the transformation of the Jebel Ali Racecourse into a new 5-square-kilometre urban district. Meanwhile, Diller Scofidio + Renfro has revealed the design for Therme Dubai, Islands in the Sky, a new urban wellness destination planned for Zabeel Park. Image gallerySee allShow less About this authorReyyan DoganAuthor••• Cite: Reyyan Dogan. "Zaha Hadid Architects Unveils Design of Oystra Mixed-Use Development in the United Arab Emirates" 14 May 2025. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1030137/zaha-hadid-architects-unveils-design-of-oystra-mixed-use-development-in-the-united-arab-emirates&gt ISSN 0719-8884Save世界上最受欢迎的建筑网站现已推出你的母语版本!想浏览ArchDaily中国吗?是否 You've started following your first account!Did you know?You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.Go to my stream

The up-and-coming studio has lodged plans with Westminster City Council – also the scheme’s backer – for permission to demolish two single-storey adult care buildings on the site in Maida Vale and replace them with three new blocks. Bungalows at 291 Harrow Road and the neighbouring 1-2 Elmfield Way are currently used to house 13 people with varying needs. Associated communal and support spaces would also go under the plans, as would a temporary multi-use games area for which planning consent has lapsed. In their place, the practice would build three adjoining blocks to deliver new residential, commercial, cultural and sports space. A communal lounge and co-working facility would be provided for privately-owned homes, while a 230m² all-weather sports space would be created.Advertisement The scheme, which has been designed with landscape specialist Farrer Huxley would also include 272 cycle spaces and a roof garden for social care residents, families and staff. Carter Gregson Gray said its scheme ‘gathers people together and celebrates community … At its heart lies a garden designed for rest, play and conversation: a place of connection.’ Floor plan 291 Harrow Road (fourth plan) It said the central block in the V-shaped development would ‘provide generous light-filled homes for 24 residents with additional needs’. The multi-purpose, all-weather play space would ‘provide residents and the wider community with a high-quality accessible sports and leisure venue which takes pride of place’, added the practice. ‘It is imagined as a beacon for the people of the area.’ Meanwhile, wide pavements, rain gardens, trees and social spaces would be used with the ambition of ‘establishing a new urban character’.Advertisement The practice added: ‘As a backdrop to this, the architecture seeks to establish a quiet order to the site, driven by environmental ambitions and the experience of residents and passers-by. The buildings are robust, precise and delicate, reflecting the predominant materiality of the area while introducing a new tradition in Westminster.’